Spelhouse Love with Georgia Roots

Today we have a beautiful Georgia bred couple to feature. Lenneia and Jonathan had a southern inspired wedding. From a traditional church ceremony to an elegantly classic reception, this beautiful couple had the epitome of a southern wedding. This Spelhouse couple had a party that friends will be talking about for years and we are so happy to share their wedding and their love story.

Bride Name-

Lenneia Batiste

Groom Name-

Jonathan Elmore

Bride Occupation:

News Anchor

Groom Occupation:

Oral Surgeon

Wedding Location-

Macon, GA

Wedding Date-

June 20th, 2015

Alma Mater of Bride-

Spelman College

Alma Mater of Groom-

Morehouse College

Current City where you live:

Brooklyn, NY

Hometown of Bride-

Riverdale, GA

Hometown of Groom-

Fayetteville, GA

How did you meet?

We met through my best friend and her boyfriend at the time. My best friend told me that she wanted me to meet this brown skin, curly haired guy that was perfect for me. We finally met, and had an instant connection! However, it was freshman year, so we became best friends—you know how college goes! After college Jonathan moved to New York to pursue dentistry, and I moved to Mississippi to a career in TV. Even though we lived miles apart, we continued to be best friends. Nearly 6 years after college, we took a leap of faith and took our friendship to the next level and have been together ever since. Many family members and friends often say we finally recognized what they’ve notice all along. We like to say that we were waiting for our perfect moment!

How long did you date?

This is an interesting question! Well, we have been best friends for 10 years, dating for two years. Let’s just say people were not surprised we tied the knot!

How did he propose?

It started with a trip to Wilkes-Barre, PA. Upon arrival, I was shocked to find out that Jonathan had requested the weekend off from work and planned a surprise trip to Niagara Falls. Little did I know that this would be a weekend full of surprises. When they arrived at Niagara Falls, I was first surprised with a boat ride on the Maid of the Mist. On the ride, we had the opportunity to see the falls up close and were even splashed a little by the water. We then crossed the border and checked into our hotel room in Canada, which overlooked the falls. Just as I was about to unpack and relax in the room, I was surprised again with a couples massage ( l love massages!). After the massage, we were extremely relaxed and were preparing for dinner at a restaurant that had been selected by Jonathan. When I pulled open the closet, I noticed there was a new dress that had been placed there for me to wear for the evening. I was so excited and surprised at his great taste. Good Job Jonathan! We then headed to dinner, and after the main course was completed, Jonathan grabbed me by the hands and stood me up from the table. He told me how our time together has been nothing short of perfect and got down on one knee and asked me to marry him.

Of course she said…..YES!

When did you know he was the one?

I actually knew he was the one when we both finally had an our Oprah “Ah-ha!” moment. We just realized that the love of our lives was right underneath our noses. He was helping me through a very difficult time in my life, and I knew then that I never wanted him to leave my side.

What is the cutest thing he has done for you without you asking?

Jonathan is always looking for little things to make me happy. He knows that I love crab legs and chicken and waffles ( he cooks, I eat) . One day he went on a grocery run, and came back with two pounds of steamed crab legs with old bay and said “Surprise!”. I was so happy! Second, one day I was craving chicken and waffles, but didn’t want to leave the house. Again, he made a grocery run, heated up the grease and made the BEST chicken and waffles. My own personal chef. He knows the way to my heart!

What is something you love about him that has completely changed your life?

He is such a compassionate doctor. He really cares for his patients. He has taught me about really connecting with strangers and giving yourself fully to your passion. He’s always the first into work, and the last to leave. I love his passion for others. He makes me want to be a better person.

What part of wedding planning made you crazy?

Invites! We both have big families, so it was tough figuring out who’s actually coming. My final number changed every day until the wedding.

What part of wedding planning could you not live without?

I really enjoyed cake tasting. Who doesn’t like free cake! I enjoyed all of the expos, tastings,etc. Companies love giving free stuff to Brides!

What was your first thought the day after your engagement?

I’m actually marrying my best friend! Yay, I scored the jackpot! It was truly a dreamy weekend.

What was your favorite part about the ceremony?

The priest’s homily. My father passed away about a year ago, so this was a very emotional day for me. Father McDonald truly captured my father’s spirit; I felt like my daddy was by my side the entire time. My dad really believed in the power of Love, and I feel that our ceremony captured his essence.

What was your favorite part about the wedding?

Our friends were so happy! They danced, partied, and did not hold back! We were one big family. I really enjoyed all the love that was in the room. Also, my planner, Julienne Vinson with Jeweled Events was amazing. I would suggest getting a day of planner; she made sure I was happy.

Did you do any DIY?

We made homemade pralines; my grandmother’s recipe. This was our favor. We bought personalized bags from Etsy and sealed them ourselves. They were a hitch!

What were your wedding colors?

Pink, Silver and Ivory

What was your wedding theme?

Classic Southern

What is your favorite part about being married to each other?

We love just having each other as partners. Just the idea of being able to have your best friend by your side is a warm feeling in itself.

What was your favorite thing about being a southern bride?

I loved that we had the wedding in a small southern city, Macon, GA. It felt very warm and hospitable, like the south. Also, we used the local trolley for transportation, which carried our wedding party through the old downtown square. It was perfect.

What was your favorite food on the menu?

We had a truly southern Menu. Fried Chicken and Collard greens, need I say more?

How long did it take you to find a dress?

One month. I wasn’t picky. Wanted something simple and elegant.

What was your favorite moment with your bridesmaids?

I loved getting ready with my girls. They took care of everything, and made sure we had mimosas to calm the nerves. They were amazing.

What did you learn about each other through the wedding planning process?

We realized that at the end of the day, as long as we said “I Do” we were ok with the final result. We learned to not stress over the small things and just enjoy the experience. Something won’t be perfect and something will not go as planned. However, it doesn’t matter because the love of your life is right by your side.

Top Memories from the Bride:

The groomsmen were so sweet. They made sure I didn’t trip while coming down the church steps. One of my most memorable moments. Another memorable moment is when my mother walked me down the aisle. I feel like my dad was right there with his girls.